Manual Grasparatus: A nifty tool for presenting real objects in fMRI research

Abstract

One of the greatest challenges in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research using real objects as stimuli is their timely delivery and (pseudo)randomized presentation. To this end, we designed an apparatus which solves the majority of problems that fMRI researchers may encounter during testing. The display apparatus – here: delivering objects for manual exploration and grasping (hence the “Grasparatus”) – is equipped with semi-attachable stimulus belts and, therefore, allows for presentation of numerous 3D objects in a pre-ordered sequence. Although the presentation is controlled manually and synchronized with fMRI scanning events via commands delivered to the experimenter, it is very reliable in conveying targets to their destination in different configurations and numbers. The stimuli are easily accessible to study participants either for manual or simple visual interactions because the device is highly adjustable. The main advantages of using this apparatus involve: • The easiness of its setup prior to a study and simplicity of its control during experimental functional MRI runs. • The possibility to use real size, magnet-friendly objects, firmly or semi-attached, so that different interactions are possible. • Fast exchange of stimulus sets between runs. Method name: Real object presentation device, Keywords: fMRI compatible device, Stimulus presentation apparatus, Real objects, Manual control, Pre-ordered presentation, Haptics